Gordon Forgey

On the back page of this section is a reproduction of what is called the Dunlap Broadside.

It is the first printed copy of the Declaration of Independence.

About 200 copies of this version were produced immediately after the Declaration was approved.

The iconic, signed parchment copy of the declaration that is so revered came later.

The Declaration of Independence includes a statement of the rights of man. But, it is more a listing of grievances intended to justify the dramatic action the colonists were taking.

The Declaration is not a framework for the future government. That would take years of difficulties, political maneuvering and false starts. The Constitution was not ratified until 1789. It was then amended with the Bill of Rights in 1791.

On July 4, we celebrate the birth of our nation. It took much more than words to bring our nation to life.

First, the colonies had to fight the British. Then, the country had to devise a workable and working government.

That government and the nation’s perception of what it should be has evolved since. It is still evolving.

Yet, just as in 1776, it is in the hands of the citizens to shape it and guide it to what it is to become.

That is the real cause of celebration.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher